Question

What is Campbell's purpose for developing the concept of "smouldering" in this way in the poem?

A) The purpose is to evoke a sense of rapid and explosive growth in the narrative.
B) The purpose is to create an image of passive and suppressed intensity in the poem.
C) The purpose is to emphasize the beauty and vibrancy of nature.
D) The purpose is to suggest a destructive and consuming force.

Answer 1

Campbell uses the concept of 'smouldering' to create an image of passive and suppressed intensity in the poem.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the poem, Campbell develops the concept of 'smouldering' to create an image of passive and suppressed intensity in the poem. The speaker describes the 'smouldering' fires as 'ghostly' and 'unreal,' comparing them to 'half-shut eyes of wild beasts' and their victims in a den. This suggests that the purpose of using the concept of 'smouldering' is to convey a sense of hidden danger and destruction.